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Inspired by the works of Arthur C. Clarke, J.G. Ballard and Philip K. Dick, Infinite Summer sees Michael Lovett’s NZCA Lines “marry sci-fi futurism to personal intimacies” to produce what must surely be one of the funkiest apocalyptic concept albums of all time. Indeed, also featuring former Ash guitarist Charlotte Hatherley and drummer Sarah Jones (Hot Chip, New Young Pony Club), the follow-up to 2012’s self-titled debut may center on […]

Named after a term used for trained assassins he heard in a documentary on espionage, Skilled Mechanics sees trip-hop trailblazer Tricky assemble his own killer team for the most collaborative studio effort of his lengthy career. Some of those on board are no stranger to the world of Adrian Thaws, including regular vocalist Francesca Belmonte who lends her sultry tones to the eerie synth-balladry of “We Begin,” drummer Luke Harris […]

As you’d expect from a founding member of studious classical-electro outfit Clean Bandit, British-Ugandan vocalist/rapper Love Ssega certainly isn’t short on brainpower. Born and raised in South London, the 24-year-old graduated from Cambridge University with a degree in Mechanical Engineering, then made the brave decision to quit the aforementioned Grammy winners to finish his Ph.D. in laser sensing. Love Ssega (real name Ssegawa-Ssekintu Kiwanuka) is just as cultured as he […]

Judging by all the pre-release talk of shunning EDM, steering dance music back into a proper direction and making a piece of art, you’d expect Steve Angello’s second solo LP, Wild Youth, to be something of a game-changer. So it’s slightly baffling to hear that the Stockholm DJ has delivered the kind of unadventurous, generic and largely forgettable record he appears to be rallying against. Indeed, featuring guest appearances from […]

David Bowie, arguably one of the most influential figures in modern music for the past 40-plus years, died on Sunday, Jan. 10 after a battle with cancer. He was 69. While previous rumors of his death in years past were greatly exaggerated, the news has been confirmed by Bowie’s representatives and his son Duncan Jones (via Twitter). The following statement appears on Bowie’s official Facebook page: “David Bowie died peacefully […]

So after crowning Jamie xx’s “Loud Places” and Bob Moses’ Days Gone By as the greatest single and album of 2015 respectively, we now switch our attention to what we can expect to hear over the next twelve months in the world of dance/electronica. The first big album out of the blocks this year is Moth (Jan 22), the third album from alt-pop duo Chairlift, which judging by its first […]

Who Belongs On The XXL Freshman 2013 Cover? Part 2

Continuing from the last post…here’s the second part of my list of 10 MC’s who need to be featured on XXL’s 2013 Freshman Class cover:

5. Action Bronson – Action Bronson (what an awesome name!) is this generation’s version of Ghostface Killah. His flow stays in and out of pocket, but it’s always pleasing to the ears. His voice would convince you that he’s a brother, but you might be surprised to know that he’s Albanian. Plus, he’s a certified chef. That must explain why he’s able to “cook” a lot better than Lil’ B. Anyway, Bronson takes me back to the days of Mobb Deep and Nas. If we’re in a new Golden Era of NY rap, it’s thanks to super raw MCs like Action Bronson. Check for “The Symbol” and you’ll soon recognize his skills.

4. Casey Veggies – Roc Nation knows talent, so I’m not surprised by their co-signing of Casey Veggies. Veggies has been around for a hot minute and he’s taken time to cultivate his strong body of work. His most recent mixtape is, in my opinion, one of the frontrunners for 2013’s best mixtape. He’s able to cater to the kids who use the word “swag” as a part of their vernacular, and he’s able to appeal to the backpackers just as strongly. Casey Veggies is a veteran in my eyes, but XXL needs to acknowledge him as a dope hip-hop Freshman.

3. Rapsody – North Carolina breeds the best MCs nowadays. When I think of my alma mater’s home state, I think of Little Brother, 9th Wonder, Khrysis etc. Another name has to be added to that illustrious list of southern rap greatness – Rapsody. She doesn’t deserve the label of a great female MC since she’s just a dope MC, no matter the gender. The Idea of Beautiful put me on to her and I’ve stayed on her bandwagon ever since. You want thoughtful lyrics, non-stop verses and intricate songwriting? Check for Rapsody. She’s your new go-to rap gal.

2. Ab-Soul – Ab-Soul is a different beast. His thought process is way beyond the typical rapper’s intricacies. It’s clear that “Solo” is a super intellectual being who wishes to provide great rap/hip-hop, while looking to educate the masses on deeper topics. Control System captures the otherworldly spirit of this MC perfectly. Ab-Soul rivals Kendrick Lamar as TDE’S top dawg and most brilliant MC. If XXL doesn’t pick him, then Ab-Soul’s conspiracy theories will definitely have some weight to them.

1. Joey Bada$$ – New York is officially back thanks to brand new cats like French Montana and A$AP Rocky. But the boom bap days of the rotten apple seem to have rubbed off on this young upstart. His music sounds like it was discovered in a time capsule from the mid-90’s. Joey can spit like nobody’s business, and the kid sounds way beyond his years. For those looking for that classic rap/hip-hop sound, look no further than this youngster. 1999 is the truth.

So that’s my list. I’m interested in seeing who you rap/hip-hop heads will be selecting for XXL’s illustrious cover. Lemme know in the comments, y’all.

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About the Author

Elton Jones (no relation to the guy who sings "Bennie and The Jets") is a huge fan of rap, hip-hop and R&B. His favorite artists range from golden era rap crews such as A Tribe Called Quest and De La Soul, to today's current rap stars like Big Sean and Kendrick Lamar. Elton appreciates every facet of the urban music genre and follows the major developments that are made within the industry. Elton obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Saint Augustine's College in 2010. With his degree in hand, he now looks to make a lasting impact in the world of music journalism. He also hopes to attend a SXSW and Rock The Bells concert someday.